Chapter 4, Seeking the Master

"It is but a small effort on my part, yet the young lady is so courteous, how can one possibly deserve such treatment?" The reputation of being a land of etiquette is well-deserved. After I graciously declined their kindness, I became increasingly mindful of my words and actions, fearing that I might lose face in the heavenly realm

After several days of practice, I have come to understand that the worldly rule is to pay for things, but I have no money. Therefore, I rummaged through my small pouch for a long time and found a valuable set of thousand-year-old rhino horn carvings, which I handed to the old man in exchange for a bun

"Get away!" I shouted, pushing the scoundrel away, raising my hand as if to strike. Then I remembered that I now resembled a master, and it seemed there was no issue of being teased. This behavior was rather effeminate, so I quickly summoned the spirit of a strong man, straightened my chest, and defended my master's honor: "Your eyesight is truly poor; how could you mistake a proper seven-foot man for a woman? That is utterly shameless."

The shopkeeper, squinting his small eyes and stroking his beard, approached and retorted without courtesy: "Are you here to cause trouble?"

I am furious and am about to cite references to argue a point or two

Although you appear refined and beautiful, you are quite a foolish parent. How did you raise your child? He is starving like this, yet still goes to pick fruit! The old man, unable to bear the sight, took two buns from the steamer, wrapped them in paper, and handed them to me, shaking his head and saying, "Since I feel sorry for this child who is so sensible, I will show great compassion and offer you a bun. Remember to bring money next time!"

No, " Bai Guan blushed and stammered, 'Master Sister, I don't have any sorrowful insects in my stomach, I am just hungry.'

In a moment of reflection, an old man selling buns approached with a shoulder pole at the street corner, rhythmically calling out as he walked: "Come! Eat buns! Meat filling, vegetable filling, sesame filling! Eat one, it will fill your belly! Eat two, and you will feel like a deity!"

"Do not tease my sister... Father!" Bai Guan charged forward like a little tiger, grabbing the young man's hand and biting down hard.

In the celestial realm, money is regarded as mere dirt, and the fairies all maintain their lofty identities. None of them learn the art of turning stone into gold; they not only avoid touching money but are also reluctant to even mention the word "money" to avoid being tainted by the mundane world. When there is no way to avoid it, they simply refer to it as "that which is of no significance," lest they become the subject of ridicule among the other immortals.

Young women in the mortal realm are even more scatterbrained than I am. While walking down the street, they often lose things. After crossing two streets, I picked up three handkerchiefs and two purses. Each time I caught up to return them to their owners, they not only expressed their heartfelt gratitude but also incessantly asked where I lived, wanting to visit and thank me in person

Bai Guan shook his head, wanting to speak yet hesitating, caught in indecision

He... he is so rude

I transformed into the appearance of a master, standing upright on the Qikong Mingyue Bridge, which is an important bridge connecting the dock in Luoshui Town. Anyone who steps into this town can see me at a glance. Meanwhile, Bai Guan squatted on the ground, bored out of his mind, counting the one hundred and eight beast heads carved on the bridge several times, and finally sat beside me, looking at me with a pitiful expression.

It turns out that there is indeed a very good disciple

The art of transformation merely alters one's appearance, without any change to the essence within. I saw him with ill intentions, and a great fear gripped my heart. In that moment, I forgot about my daughter's innocence and was instead concerned that if he were to touch her, he might mistakenly believe that her master was a eunuch. What could be done about this situation

He smiled and did not respond

Although I despise this person's frivolity and do not understand the ways in which men interact, I have heard that many people in the mortal realm form friendships through the bond of wine, so I did not take it to heart and simply declined politely

Bai Guan gazed longingly at the steamed buns, constantly twitching his nose, his pitiful appearance of wanting but not daring to speak made one feel heartbroken

I gently said: "How can one not seek treatment for an illness? Do not fear the bitterness of medicine"

Yet he saw Bai Guan biting down fiercely, blood oozing from the wound. The young man felt he had lost face and angrily ordered the ruffians: "Bring back these two shameless bastards... the beauty! Leave them for me to deal with properly"

Celestial beings in the heavenly realm can practice fasting or consume golden elixirs and immortal fruits. As a being transformed from jade and stone, I have never needed to eat since childhood, and I am even unaware of what hunger is. Occasionally, I might indulge in a few drops of nectar or flower honey, merely to satisfy a craving. Today, I have come to realize that the stomach can indeed growl when it is hungry

I do not know where I have lost my manners, and I hurriedly explained: "No, I am here to fetch medicine for my child’s illness"

I am immensely grateful, thank you a thousand times: "Please, benefactor, leave your name, so that in the future I may repay you..."

The young apprentice looked at me oddly for a moment, then ran off to find the shopkeeper doctor

After much difficulty in finding a pharmacy, I politely instructed the pharmacist: "Please give me three qian of hundred-year ginseng, two fen of ice poria, one red toad, and two strips of golden willow..."

I saw that young master being beaten to the point of covering his head and fleeing in panic, which was truly pitiful. It was not appropriate to hold him accountable any further, so I had no choice but to retract the three strands of silver thread that I had already drawn out, thereby sparing him from the agony of a splitting headache for half a month, and hurriedly left with Bai Guan.

I felt a sense of worry in my heart, so I reached out to touch my forehead, probing again and again, and asked: "What exactly is uncomfortable? Is there anything moving in your abdomen?"

The noblemen rolled up their sleeves and moved forward, ready to display their masculine spirit. However, the young master, who was stiffly standing by, weakly spoke up: "Grandfather, why have you returned..."

Bai Guan looked at me in confusion

Is it fake? Bai Guan still does not believe it

"My lord... such words should not be spoken..." The attendant accompanying him, seeing his master in a fit of anger, hurriedly advised, "We have traveled a long way back from the capital; let us speak calmly and not rush."

The old man swung his cane towards the young master's head, cursing, "You unfilial wretch! You bastard! I have served as an honest official, yet you tarnish my reputation by behaving recklessly outside! It would be better to have killed you sooner! To spare the Zhou family's disgrace!"

Luoshui Town is located outside the borders of the Xia Kingdom and serves as a vital thoroughfare for water transport connecting the north and south. It is frequented by numerous merchants, and its level of prosperity rivals that of cities within the borders. Due to its northern location, the local customs are bold and unrestrained, with martial arts schools, taverns, and gambling houses found everywhere. Occasionally, one can see individuals from the martial world walking about, armed with knives and swords. Additionally, many officials dispatched from within the borders, as well as long-term merchants stationed here, have planted poplar trees and built villas, bringing the refined customs of the interior into this area. Today, the blending of northern and southern styles has created a unique landscape in Luoshui Town.

I do not possess the blessings of longevity, wealth, and happiness, nor do I concern myself with the peace and health of households. Therefore, no mortal has ever sought me out, watching as the small light of the soul gradually extinguishes at my fingertips. Since my master departed, I have never been so happy.

"Go back and take a look for yourself." I recalled amusing incidents from years past, and a smile involuntarily curved my lips. My master preferred tranquility, yet the lively guests often caused him great annoyance. Whenever he saw visitors arriving, he would hurriedly drag me to the back mountain to escape, hiding in the caves of Xieyou Mountain, the depths of the lake, and among the trees. We played hide and seek with great delight. In the end, he would always kick me out first to scout the way, while he squatted behind, incessantly asking, "Have they left? Are they gone yet?" Only after confirming it was safe would he emerge, covered in dust, and we would burst into laughter together.

I nodded and shook my head, proudly stating: "Of course, the master is handsome; I can only replicate his form, but I cannot capture his spirit. Though the two may seem similar, the difference is as vast as that between clouds and mud."

I laughed for a long time

Bai Guan pounced on me, desperately holding onto my hand, half pulling and half dragging, as we fled the pharmacy like the wind

I smiled politely at him, without saying a word, and took the white cane to leave

His companions began to jeer, and the young man smiled and offered an apology, while his hand restlessly reached over to embrace my waist, moving downward as he lewdly remarked, "Even the courtesans of the capital cannot compare to your charm and elegance; could it be that you were mistakenly born a male?"

I said: "Oh, the worm, his stomach has been growling continuously. Listen, it sounded again."

Upon hearing the sound, I looked over to see three or four young gentlemen in splendid attire gathered in a group, playfully bantering with each other while directing their words towards me. The youth who was speaking was quite handsome, and the fan in his hand added to his elegance; however, it could not conceal the arrogance that emanated from him, which left a rather unpleasant impression.

Bai Guan nodded obediently, and his stomach growled twice again

Bai Guan stared at me in astonishment, two drops of cold sweat trickling down his forehead, constantly tugging at the hem of my clothes, "Master Sister, I am not sick, let us leave quickly"

Bai Guan's stomach rumbled heavily twice, startling me awake from my silly laughter. Looking down, I saw his face full of discomfort, which suddenly reminded me of an ancient record that mentioned a creature named Ai in Chiyan Mountain, transformed from vengeful spirits. On rainy days, it would burrow into the bellies of children, incessantly crying out for justice. Its sound resembled weeping, and its voice was like thunder. This description somewhat resembled the scene before me

"In broad daylight, harassing respectable women..." The old man, furious, had a face full of anger. After scolding halfway, he turned back to look at me, his expression stiffened for a moment, then he retracted the latter part of his words and continued to scold that young master, "Well, you little rascal, have you read the classics and stuffed them into a dog's belly?"

I finished grooming the child and asked Leqing to help find a set of plain white clothing for him to change into. I then took out the fragrant wood comb from my bosom and carefully arranged his delicate, glossy long hair. I removed an ivory-white hairband from my own head and loosely tied it at the back of his head, letting a few strands of hair fall over his forehead. After finishing the styling, I took a close look and felt that he was even more exquisite than the White Deer Immortal Boy, who is praised by everyone in the heavenly realm.

Bai Guan's complexion grew increasingly grim

I cursed that his grandfather is a rabbit The old man pointed at his own nose, trembling with anger, gripping his cane a little tighter, as if he wanted to resort to violence

After all, the master's lineage is superior. I joyfully hold his delicate little hand, feeling increasingly delighted, yet I also pity him for having suffered great misfortune. Now, his appearance is haggard, and from time to time, sounds emanate from his stomach, suggesting that he has not fully recovered

"Ha, since you are back from the capital," the young master's accomplice stepped forward to assist, pointing at the old man with a smirk and saying, "Do you know who this Young Master Zhou is? His grandfather is the current Minister of War! A high-ranking official of the third rank! When you insult him as a bastard, you are also insulting his father as a rabbit and his grandfather as a rabbit! What punishment should be meted out for insulting a court official? It would be best for you to obediently compensate and apologize, otherwise we will take you to court and you will regret it!"

A good thing is a valuable item. I went to the best inn in town and booked two upper rooms, ordered a table full of delicious dishes, allowing Bai Guan to eat to his heart's content. Then, I calculated a direction and went to find the old man who sells buns, giving him a considerable amount of silver as a reward for his hospitality.

I did not expect that the spirit of the lantern came into my hands, with his slightly slanted small handwriting on it, reading: Fairy Yuyao, thank you

I urgently said: "These are all commonly used medications, how could there be none?"

They escaped to a secluded place, and the two of them stopped. I noticed he was still tense, and couldn't help but laugh, saying: "You need not worry too much. Although my master is a woman and not a particularly skilled warrior, she does possess some abilities, and ordinary villains will not gain the upper hand against her."

A little girl hurriedly approached me, her face flushed, and stuffed a handkerchief into my hand. Then she pointed towards a distant pleasure boat and, smiling, hurried away. I thought it was news from my master, and quickly unfolded it, only to find written: "In springtime, the blossoms of apricot trees blow all around. Whose young man is this on the path, so charming and carefree?"

Bai Guan nodded vigorously as if pounding garlic

At the place where the painted boat's curtain is rolled up, a beautifully dressed lady is gazing at me intently. When our eyes meet, she shyly turns her head away, covering her face with a fan. It is only then that I notice many passersby have stopped by the bridge, regardless of age or gender, all boldly or cautiously watching me and Bai Guan.

I recall: "In those years, the Heavenly Consort hosted a banquet at the Phoenix Song Terrace, where my master played the tune 'Longing' on his jade flute, attracting celestial cranes and colorful phoenixes to dance in unison, captivating countless fairies. In an instant, the guests at the Worry-Free Peak were as numerous as clouds, some in pairs, others in groups of three or five, effectively trampling the entrance of the Worry-Free Residence down by half.

It is one thing for the master not to want his own disciple, but surely he cannot abandon the child as well

I was increasingly worried, but fortunately, I remembered the method for dealing with the lamenting insect mentioned in the book, so I decided to go to the medical clinic to prepare medicine to drive away the insect. Just as I was about to set off, a man's frivolous voice came from beside me: "This young master, where are you headed?"

"You old man, go home and obediently take care of your grandson, do not meddle in our young master's affairs!" The ruffian, seeing someone being ungrateful, stepped forward to drive the old man away

During the remaining time, I often took Bai Guan out to have fun, going to the town to watch performances and acrobatics, while also inquiring about the whereabouts of our master, but I found no clues. Bai Guan's smile grew increasingly radiant, and he even lit a wish lantern by the river, intending to entrust his wish to the deities. I said to him: "People make too many wishes; the gods are overwhelmed. Even if they receive the lanterns, most of them will not pay attention. Which deity do you wish to make a request to? I can speak on your behalf."

The shopkeeper doctor fell silent for a moment, then slammed a ledger onto my head and shouted angrily: "Madman! Get lost! I'll beat you to death!"

Oh dear, my lord, please calm down. He is your grandson; how can you refer to yourself as his father? Isn't that a step down in the hierarchy? The attendant beside him, with a worried expression, kept advising, "We are in the public square. Although you are still vigorous in your old age, please take care not to strain your back. Give the young master some face and save the reprimanding for when you return..."

Seeing his little face turning pale from hunger, I felt an overwhelming sense of shame and softly reassured him: "Please bear with me for a moment, I will go to the nearby woods and pick some fruits for us to eat"

The shopkeeper doctor asked: "What illness?"

I handed it to Bai Guan. Ignoring the heat, he devoured one in a few bites, then sniffed the remaining one, swallowed hard, and reluctantly returned it to me, saying: "Master Sister should also have some."

Passing through the willow lane, walking past the flower tower, taverns and inns bustling with people, everywhere there are songs and the fragrance of wine

He has forgotten all his origins, and I do not dare to easily bestow a name upon him. Therefore, I borrowed the name "Bai Guan" from the white jade flute that my master often carries. The child gently accepted it, repeatedly murmuring it along the way, seemingly pleased.

Bai Guan looked at the old man and then at me, whispering: "Master, I actually am not too hungry, so I won't eat the buns"

Although I feel that it is utterly unreasonable for a man to tease another man, I fear that Bai Guan might suffer a loss, so I hurriedly pulled him, who was still being punched and kicked, behind me and said with a smile: "The child is being rude, do not take it to heart"

Faced with the beauty conveying feelings, I was so frightened that I broke out in a cold sweat, hurriedly covering my face with my sleeve and crouching down to shrink away towards Bai Guan. However, Bai Guan was also literate; he took the handkerchief, looked at it for a while, then glanced at my face and curiously asked: "Fairy sister, you said your master might be my father, is he really that handsome?"

The black horn, ancient and simple, bears no decorative patterns whatsoever. The old man gazed at it for a long time, unable to identify what it was. Despite my persistent explanations, he stubbornly refused to make an exchange.

Unexpectedly, seven or eight wealthy young men surged around, blocking the way. The young man hooked his arm over my shoulder, made a face, and whispered in my ear: "The way you speak really resembles that of a woman"

"Stop!" A loud shout came from a distance. It was an old man dressed in blue, leaning on a cane, accompanied by a young attendant carrying a small bundle on his back. He hurriedly approached from the other end of the bridge, rubbed his bleary eyes, and sternly asked the young man, "What are you doing?"

In the mortal realm, I was astonished to see the low-ranking God of Wealth, Zhao Gongming, being highly revered, with an unceasing flow of incense offerings.

The soft and steaming buns in hand exude a delightful aroma

"Don't be in such a hurry to leave," the young man seemed to lose his spirit for a moment, quickly stepped forward, reached out to block me, and with a mischievous smile said, "Good brother, I feel a connection with you at first sight. How about we go have a drink and get to know each other better?"

The child's voice is incredibly soft and sweet, so adorable that even stones would soften. I quietly told him in his ear that he cannot eat mortal food. He blinked his bright eyes for a moment and finally happily finished the remaining bun. I watched him with a beaming smile as he licked the crumbs off his fingers, taking out an embroidered handkerchief to wipe the corners of his mouth. Then, feeling the emptiness of my purse, I was quite troubled.

The young master did not expect me to leave, and under the pressure of the stick, he became extremely anxious, clinging to his grandfather's thigh and pleading: "Grandfather, please wait a moment before you hit; the person is about to leave, and I haven't even asked for their name yet..."

Master, the world is truly marvelous!

I was taken aback: "Does your stomach growl when you're hungry?"

The utterance of "Grandfather" was as if a thunderbolt had struck, causing the young rascals to scatter in fear, while the ruffians turned weak in the knees, instantly transforming from tigers into timid little kittens, bowing their heads and shrinking to the side, not daring to utter a sound

I can no longer endure it and am on the verge of erupting

The old man smiled and waved his hand, shouldering his burden, and walked away while calling out.

Now, although I am reluctant to be ridiculed by the celestial beings, I am even less willing to let my disciple suffer hardships. Therefore, I set aside my pride and humbly sought help from others. I took the horned lute armor to a place called a pawn shop. The pawn shop owner said the item was mediocre and asked how much I wanted to pawn it for. This was my first time engaging in such a disgraceful transaction, and I was so embarrassed that I couldn't even lift my head, stammering that he could decide the amount. He casually offered me twenty taels of worthless goods. I hurriedly grabbed the white flute and fled that dreadful place, instructing him that upon returning to the heavenly realm, he must never mention this incident, or else we, as master and disciple, would be laughed at for at least three hundred years.

The young apprentice was taken aback, repeatedly shaking his head and saying, "No, no."